Why is folk music associated with the political left, and country music with the right?
American folk, as the term is widely used, brings to mind left-wing artists like Woodie Guthrie and Pete Seeger, not to mention various protest musicians from the 1960s. Country, on the other hand, makes you think of "red-meat" conservatives, from Charlie Daniels to Toby Keith.
These stereotypes don't always match reality, but they seem largely true. Recall the vitriolic backlash against the Dixie Chicks after they attacked President Bush. Willie Nelson supported Dennis Kucinich for president in 2004, but he's also the guy who did that pro-lynching anthem with Toby Keith, "Beer for My Horses." (What is it with country singers and lynching, anyway? Charlie Daniels also did the vigilante-themed song "Simple Man" in 1989. Maybe that helps explain why so few blacks have dabbled in country music. I hear that Cowboy Troy is a Republican.) I can't offhand think of any right-wing folk singers.
What's especially confusing is that the line between country and folk isn't all that clear, and the terms are used interchangeably when it comes to certain music. (What's bluegrass, for example, folk or country?) They draw upon many of the same traditions in American music, and there's a strong overlap between the two genres.
The political dichotomy is something I've never fully understood, and I'm looking for people who are able to explain it more clearly.